Episode 154 – A Life of Invention and Adventure with John Simms
John is a father, husband, inventor, entrepreneur, former ski patrolman, avalanche expert, and an artist.
In this episode, John talks about how he made his way out to Jackson from New York over 60 years ago. He shares how his father encouraged his inventive and entrepreneurial spirit which led him to start many impactful companies and create numerous life-changing inventions. John goes into how he started a local rafting company, outdoor retail company, and a research organization, all while being a ski patrolman at JHMR. John also discusses with Stephan how he transitioned from operating Simms Fishing Products into becoming an artist.
Read MoreEpisode 152 – Death by Toasting with Heather Gould & Polly Filice of Pearl Street Bagels
In this episode, Heather and Polly talk about how they made it from opposite sides of the country to work in the same bagel shop in Wilson. They go into how they went from working as an employee to owning the whole business. Polly talks about the bagel-making process and how their bagels are made in the traditional east coast style of boiling and baking, which eliminates the need for toasting when made fresh. Stephan, Heather, and Polly talk about some of the challenges of operating a business in Jackson but also how it is one of the most supportive communities as well.
Read MoreEpisode 151 – Handcrafted in Jackson Hole with Pam Barlow of Copperdot Leather Goods
Pam is a long-time resident, a mom, a wife, a former school bus driver and she is the Owner and Founder of Copperdot Leather Goods.
In this episode, Pam shares how she packed up her car 30 years ago and left Detroit in hopes of landing a career-track job in Jackson. She talks about what it was like to be a school bus driver and how it was one of the best jobs she has ever had. Pam then goes into how the creation of one leather bag led to building a successful locally crafted brand. Stephan and Pam also talk about the importance of leaning into positive feedback and how starting a business can be a lonely road.
Read MoreEpisode 150 – Supporting Our Business Community with Anna Olson of the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce
Anna is the former Communications Manager at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and is now the CEO and President of the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce. Anna also serves on the board of the Wyoming Office of Tourism.
In this episode, Anna shares how she made her way to Jackson from England. She talks about working for JHMR for over two decades and what it was like being a part of the growth spurt in Teton Village. Anna goes into what it is exactly that the Chamber does for the business community and the people of Jackson. Stephan and Anna discuss how it is the chambers responsible to not only promote Jackson but also manage the visitors that come to the Valley. They also talk about the importance of mental wellness as a part of staying healthy.
Read MoreEpisode 148 – Keeping Jackson Hole Clean with Brice Dunn
Brice is a father, husband, entrepreneur, former massage therapist, and is the owner of White Glove Professional Cleaning Service. In this episode, Brice shares the story of how he left Oregon for the mountains of Alaska, and later found his way to Jackson to work in the hotel industry as a massage therapist. He talks about how he came about working and owning a 40-year-old family cleaning business, White Glove Professional Cleaning. Stephan and Brice discuss what it takes to keep morale high for employees and also what kind of dirty jobs Brice has had to tackle.
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